Chickenpox

Causes

Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It spreads from person to person via:

Airborne droplets of moisture containing the VZV virus

Direct contact with fluid from a chickenpox or zoster rash

It is contagious 1-2 days before the rash erupts. It remains contagious until all of the blisters have crusted. This takes five days. It is most contagious just after the rash has broken out.

A pregnant mother can transmit the virus to a fetus.

Risk Factors

Factors that increase your chance of getting chickenpox include:

Close contact with an infected person, unless you have been
vaccinated
or have already had chickenpox

Age: less than three years old, with peak incidence between 5-9 years old

Immune-deficient state, such as having
leukemia, an organ transplant, high-dose steroid use, or HIV

Cancer

Pregnancy

Time of year—late winter, early spring

Symptoms

Symptoms break out about 10-21 days after contact. They are more severe in adults than they are in children.

Initial symptoms include:

Mild headache

Moderate fever

Cough

Sore throat

Severe itch

Lack of appetite

General feeling of discomfort

Some children complain of abdominal pain

The rash appears within 1-2 days after the first symptoms. The rash:

Begins with small, flat, red spots:

Spots become raised and form a round, intensely itchy, fluid-filled blister

Blisters develop in clusters, with new clusters forming over 5-6 days

Usually develops into patches on the skin above the waist, including the scalp

May also appear on the eyelids, in the mouth, upper airway, voice box, or on the genitals

Typically crusts over by day six or seven and disappears within three weeks

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Diagnosis is usually based on the rash and your age. Blood and lab tests to identify the virus are rarely needed.

Treatment

Chickenpox is mild in most people. It will naturally run its course. In these cases,
treatment
focuses on relieving the symptoms.

Apply wet compresses to the skin

Apply over-the-counter anti-itch creams or lotions

Take oatmeal baths

Take an oral antihistamine

Note: Aspirin is not recommended for children or teens with a current or recent viral infection. This is because of the risk of Reye's syndrome. Ask your doctor which other medicines are safe for your child.

Antibiotics cannot cure infections caused by a virus. They may be given if the rash becomes infected with bacteria.

The course, severity, and duration of the infection may be reduced by antiviral medications, such as:

Acyclovir

Valacyclovir

Famciclovir

They are often used in:

Adolescents, adults, and individuals with weak immune systems

Individuals with chronic skin or lung diseases and those taking aspirin or steroids

Varicella-zoster immune globulin is often given immediately after exposure. It is reserved for newborns and people with weak immune systems.

Prevention

Avoid contact with anyone who has chickenpox. This is very important if you have not been vaccinated against the infection.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.